A Look Around the West

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In a weekly segment, we'll take a look around the AL West — what's happened so far, and what's on tap in the coming days.

1. Texas Rangers (91-64) — The Rangers have now lost two straight games to the Oakland A's, and if not for Adrian Beltre's heroics on Monday, it would be three straight. Regardless, things are getting serious now with seven games remaining — four against the A's and three against the third-place Los Angeles Angels. The Rangers had to have hoped to have things wrapped up by now. Today's game against the A's is arguably the most important of the season for both teams. A Rangers win brings the magic number to 3, while an A's win puts them two games back of the Rangers. Yikes. Next up: Today, 1:05 p.m., vs. Oakland A's.

2. Oakland A's (88-67) — Brandon McCarthy goes down, no problem. Same with Brett Anderson. No problem. This team is really unbelievable. A win today over the Rangers will put them in great position as almost a sure bet as a wild card team and right in the thick of the AL West race as they close the season with three games at home against the struggling Rangers. Next up: Today, 1:05 p.m., at Texas Rangers.

3. Los Angeles Angels (86-69) — The Angels have to like where they are, considering the way this season has gone. With the way the Rangers' lineup is struggling and a tired bullpen heading into their weekend series, the Angels will be in a position to close the season with the Rangers and A's beating up on each other. This is the last team the Rangers want to see make the playoffs. Next up: Today, 2:35 p.m., vs. Seattle Mariners.